Opinion: Once again, we’re reminded that developers and their checkbooks control L.A. City Hall

To the editor: Great reporting by Times journalists David Zahniser and Emily Alpert Reyes. Exposing the corruption of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and Councilmembers Janice Hahn (now a congresswoman), Joe Buscaino, Jose Huizar and Mitchell Englander — who took large campaign donations from people tied with a developer whose controversial residential project was approved by City Hall — is real journalism. (“A $72-million apartment project. Top politicians. Unlikely donors. Who wrote the checks?” Oct. 30)

The ability of developers to “buy” our elected officials is a systemic government problem fueled by power and financial gain. The article exposes the manipulation of our elected officials by a developer to change zoning laws for large-scale developments.

Many conservation organizations and individuals fight City Hall to stop urban sprawl in open space, wildlife corridors and habitats. Now I understand why we lose so many battles: Animals cannot get a break from urban sprawl because they do not have a bank account.

Carla Bollinger, Newbury Park

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To the editor: It sure seems that none of our elected representatives can be trusted to do the right thing with public funds. How can we trust them, especially when they accept money left and right from special interests like the people associated with controversial developer Samuel Leung?

I shudder to say it, but the local government is rigged. This latest scandal speaks volumes as to why I won’t vote for any ballot measure that provides new money to be controlled by the officials of the city or county of Los Angeles.

Until somehow the local political scene is truly reformed, “not a dime more” is my motto.

Loren Mark, Los Angeles

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To the editor: Thank you for further bringing to light the worst kept secret that our Mayor and city council members are nothing more than shameless pawns in our developer-run city.

Babette Wilk, Valley Village

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